5 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Roofing Companies

Do you know there are 5 common mistakes that homeowners commit when hiring roofing companies?

Any one of these mistakes can lead to a disaster and a big hole in your wallet. So if you are on the lookout for a roofer, take a look at these 5 common mistakes and avoid them.

1. Going for the lowest rate offer. Cheap is not always best. You must also consider the quality of their service. You may pay the lowest rate in the market but you might end up needing the project re-done – and paying for it again.
2. Not doing research. There are roofing contractors out there that are not registered and licensed. Always check for their credentials and references.
3. Not checking the roofer’s insurance or warranty. It’s important to ask about your contractor’s insurance and warranty terms. Some companies imply that these are included automatically in the package but it would often turn out that not everything is covered. Directly ask the company about their workers’ insurance and the warranty on the materials and workmanship.

Roofing is a dangerous job, the workers must be fully covered by the company’s insurance else, you would be held liable if accidents occur. The warranty should also be laid out clearly. What are the conditions? How long is the coverage? Does it cover only the materials used or the workmanship as well? Don’t be afraid to ask the roofing company questions, it’s your right to do so and any legitimate and trusted company would expect you to anyway and offer answers readily.

4. Not securing a signed copy of the agreement.

A written agreement will ensure there are no unexpected cost overruns down the road. The signed agreement should contain these information:

• What materials are to be used
• When is the estimated completion date
• What are the pricing details and payment schedules
• What are they warranty details (a separate copy of the proposed warranty should be secured)
• Complete insurance and safety information

5. Not asking an estimator to come over. A qualified estimator should be consulted to determine your requirements, do actual measurements and discuss roofing materials. Have the estimator draft a written estimate which will serve as your reference. Secure the estimate before the roofer starts work. This will prevent any potential misunderstanding between you and the roofer in the future.